The Formula 1 world is buzzing with anticipation as Sergio Perez’s contract with Red Bull Racing is set to expire at the end of the season, opening up one of the most desirable seats on the grid. Since joining the team in 2021, the Mexican driver has notched up five victories, yet it’s evident that Red Bull’s main focus has been on their superstar driver, Max Verstappen. The noticeable difference in pace between Perez and Verstappen has fueled speculation that Perez might be replaced for the 2025 season. Currently, Daniel Ricciardo appears to be the top contender to fill the coveted seat, according to early rumors.
The former Red Bull standout currently finds himself driving for their junior team, Red Bull Racing. However, his hopes of reclaiming a leading position on the grid are fading following a challenging few seasons and a disappointing start to the current year. His performance hit a low point when he crashed out at the beginning of the Japanese Grand Prix, contrasting with his teammate Yuki Tsunoda’s successful points finish at his home race. Tsunoda’s strong showing has thrust him into consideration for the seat. Additionally, Red Bull’s reserve driver, Liam Lawson, is also being considered for the position. There’s also speculation that Red Bull might explore options beyond their own talent pool, with Carlos Sainz, who is departing Ferrari to accommodate Sir Lewis Hamilton, being linked to the team due to his impressive performance earlier in the season.
Following the Japanese Grand Prix, Sergio Perez provided an intriguing update on the competition for his Formula 1 seat, disclosing that a verdict regarding his future with the team will be reached before the conclusion of April. Despite finishing second in Suzuka behind his teammate Max Verstappen, Perez was questioned about whether he feels added pressure, considering he’s essentially battling for his continuation at Red Bull. His response conveyed a sense of calmness, stating, “No, I’m pretty relaxed about it. Really pleased with what I’ve done in the sport so far and I believe it will be a matter of time.”
“Obviously, the driver market is dynamic, and there will likely be significant movement in the next few weeks. So, I anticipate having a clear picture of my plans for next year within a month,” Perez commented.
Red Bull team principal Christian Horner echoed Perez’s sentiments, expressing satisfaction with the driver’s performances and indicating a leaning towards extending his contract. “It’s his [Perez’s] seat to lose. He’s doing a fantastic job. He qualified within a tenth of a second yesterday, his best qualifying performance here by far,” Horner stated.
“I think you can see his confidence growing, and I thought his performance in the race again was very strong today. His third second-place finish of the year, and he’s doing exactly what was needed of him,” remarked Red Bull team principal Christian Horner, praising Perez’s consistent improvement and strong showings.
Before the month’s end, Perez has one more opportunity to demonstrate his value, with Formula 1 returning to China for the first time since the Covid-19 pandemic, in two weeks’ time.